20th Session of UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Committee for Safeguarding of ICH Successfully Concludes in New Delhi

The 20th Session of UNESCO’s ICH Committee concluded successfully at the Red Fort, New Delhi on 12 December 2025, marking a significant milestone in global cultural cooperation.

India as Host:
- India expressed deep satisfaction in hosting this prestigious global meeting.
- The event showcased India’s cultural richness, inclusiveness, and diverse traditions.

Major Achievement:
- Deepavali (Diwali) was inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, symbolizing light, hope, and renewal.
- This recognition reinforces the global importance of India’s vibrant living traditions.

Global Collaboration:
- Many countries expressed interest in multinational intangible heritage nominations, acknowledging traditions that transcend national borders.
- India welcomed this spirit of collaboration and affirmed readiness to jointly develop transnational nominations in the coming years.

Leadership Remarks:
- Shri Vivek Aggarwal, Secretary, Ministry of Culture, emphasized that safeguarding intangible heritage sustains communities, strengthens social bonds, and ensures continuity of traditions amid globalization, conflict, and climate pressures.
- He quoted the Atharva Veda: “समानि व: वृणुते हृदयानि” – May our hearts choose the path of unity.

Acknowledgements:
- UNESCO leadership, member states, NGOs, cultural practitioners, and experts were thanked for their active participation.
- Indian institutions like Sangeet Natak Akademi, Archaeological Survey of India, IGNCA, Sahitya Akademi, Lalit Kala Akademi, National School of Drama, and Zonal Cultural Centres played vital roles in organizing the event.

This session not only celebrated Deepavali’s global recognition but also reinforced the importance of intangible cultural heritage as a bridge for unity and resilience worldwide.